§ 16. Mr. Mossasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will make a statement on the recent disturbances in Panang.
§ Mr. MaclayOn 2nd January there were clashes between Chinese and Malay hooligans during a procession held in celebration of the centenary of the Georgetown municipality. This led to some racial tension and a number of sporadic attacks by parties of Chinese and Malay hooligans on each other during the next few days. Prompt action by the police and the arrest of known gangsters brought the situation under control by 7th January. In addition a non-party goodwill committee comprising all races, assisted in reducing communal tension. I should like to pay tribute to the police and to the prominent citizens of all communities who played so large a part in bringing the situation under control.
§ Mr. MossWhile agreeing with the last part of the right hon. Gentleman's statement, may I ask whether any special security measures have been taken as a result of these disturbances?
§ Mr. MaclayI understand that the position is under control now, and I am not informed that any further special security measures are considered necessary.